Brisbane’s Eternal Flame relocated for Shrine of Remembrance refurb

THE flame burning in Brisbane’s Cenotaph is meant to be eternal, but where it now stands is temporary. After almost 84 years, the Eternal Flame has been moved from the centre of the Shrine of Remembrance.

Corporal Christopher Purdie, from the 8/9th Battalion, carried the flame in a torch filled with butane gas and said it suitably “seemed like an eternity” when it took a minute to light.

The relocation from Anzac Square to a park below is only temporary to enable a $13.4 million restoration to take place. Soldiers from the Army’s 7th Brigade performed a slow march ceremony.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk says the place of commemoration has suffered significant water damage, and concrete slabs and stonework would be repaired.

“We will be making sure that we make it structurally sound for the next 100 years,” Mr Quirk said.

Educational features are being added to help future generations understand the Anzac spirit.

The first stage will be completed before centenary commemorations to mark the Gallipoli landing.

“It will be well and truly back in time for Anzac Day next year,” Mr Quirk said.